How have I survived 23 years as a twin?

She's headed back to the sunny shores of SoCal where she will enroll as a 2L at Pepperdine Law School after completing a summer externship in Chicago with a federal district court judge in the Loop, and I'm left here, in my empty studio apartment alone, not sure when we'll see each other again.

It's hard to believe two months went by so fast - and, for some of our close friends, it's a miracle that we're both still alive and well after sharing a studio apartment that, at times, made us both reminiscent of time we shared in the womb:

But, for all of the skepticism and wonderment on how we survived with each other in such close proximity, I argue, how could we ever survive without each other?!, especially considering genius moments shared like the ones recorded in this video:

So, in response to ChicagoNow blogger Allison Prang's post "How did you survive 20 years as a twin?", I'm here to say that, while being a twin has been magical and hilarious and happy, it's also been sad and frustrating and fear-inducing and stressful. We never would have made it this far without the loving support of our family unit and firm foundation of faith based on the promises of the Bible. As our little sister, Jennifer, will tell you, this security has made the Althoff sisters' antics entertaining enough to turn into a full-length novel, movie, or nonfiction book (would you read it? stay tuned!):

So, in times of sadness, loneliness, and isolation, like this moment as I sit in front of my computer, reminiscing about our summer together as I sit in my now empty apartment, I smile, because I know every positive experience we've had together is a blessing from God, and a reflection of how much He loves us.

I have hope that, even in times that are sad and lonely, I can rejoice knowing someday soon we'll be reunited. As pastor John Ortberg preached at Willow Creek Community Church today, for every season of trouble we experience, we've been promised deliverance - if we place our hope in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." -Isaiah 40:31-

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Meet The Blogger

Sister Christian

Sister Christian is a blogger, reporter, editor and follower of Jesus Christ seeking to find little miracles each and every day. She especially loves finding Jesus in art, music and culture. Learn more about her on Twitter @adailymiracle, and on Facebook as "A Daily Miracle." Send an email to adailymiracle@gmail.com with any comments, concerns or suggestions!